Principal Cable System Design Engineer

Description

We are hiring a Principal Cable System Design Engineer for the Transmission & Distribution group. In this senior position you will lead the planning, design and delivery of high‑voltage cable systems for transmission system operators, distribution network operators and private developers across the UK and internationally.

• Assist with leading the delivery of large‑scale HV/EHV cable system projects from concept to completion, ensuring quality, safety, and innovation throughout the lifecycle.
• Develop and oversee HV cable system designs, including routing, burial risk assessments, thermal, electromagnetic, and mechanical performance modelling.
• Provide expert‑level input into cable system ratings, installation methodologies, jointing arrangements, cleating design, and system integration in challenging environments.
• Guide and validate complex calculations including ampacity, short circuit forces, EMC, induced voltages, and thermomechanical forces to meet compliance with National Grid TPs, IEC, and CIGRÉ standards.
• Undertake client and stakeholder engagement, providing technical assurance, strategic direction, and value‑engineered solutions on high‑profile infrastructure programmes.
• Manage coordination between disciplines, including civil, structural, OHL, substation, and marine engineering inputs, to ensure cohesive and integrated design solutions.
• Drive project execution, managing technical risks, interfaces, and quality reviews while supporting procurement, construction, and commissioning phases.
• Conduct 3rd‑party inspections, FAT/SAT witnessing and vendor oversight for cable and ancillary equipment.
• Champion mentorship, knowledge‑sharing, and technical development within the wider team, supporting capability growth in cable systems engineering.
• Support business development activities, including proposals, bid reviews, and client presentations.

Requirements

• Demonstrated experience as a technical leader in HV/EHV cable system design.
• Proven track record in design, specification, and installation of complex cable systems including tunnel, urban, and constrained environments.
• In‑depth understanding of international and UK‑specific standards, particularly National Grid TPs, IEC, and CIGRÉ guidelines.
• Experience working in regulated, quality‑assured environments—preferably with National Grid, SSE, EirGrid, or equivalent TSO/DNOs.
• Strong ability to coordinate multidisciplinary engineering teams and engage with senior stakeholders across the project lifecycle.
• Excellent communication, client‑facing, and team leadership/mentorship skills.
• Degree‑qualified in Electrical Engineering or related field; MSc/MEng advantageous.
• Chartered Engineer (CEng) status or working towards.
• National Grid CDAE certification or similar.
• Experience with cable system software (e.g., CYMCAP, WinCable) and advanced analysis tools.

Benefits

The role sits within a dynamic T&D team of industry experts and collaborates with civil, mechanical, electrical and process engineers on projects ranging from small initiatives to large‑scale ventures. AECOM promotes an inclusive, forward‑thinking culture and offers hybrid working to support work‑life balance.

Employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes flexible hybrid work, career development through AECOM University, technical practice networks, volunteering days and tailored wellbeing programmes. The firm also provides competitive compensation and opportunities to work on transformational, sustainable projects.

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance